CFM (Airflow)

CFM: CFM is cubic feet per minute — the volume of air a fan or hood moves each minute. In commercial kitchens it rates exhaust hoods and ventilation. Enough CFM captures heat, smoke, and grease vapor; too little fails inspection and leaves a hot, smoky kitchen.

Why it matters when buying

Required exhaust CFM depends on the appliances under the hood and the hood's length and style, and it drives ductwork, make-up air, and fan cost. Undersizing CFM is a common, expensive mistake — size ventilation to the hot line before finalizing the equipment layout.

How to read it on a spec sheet

Hoods list exhaust CFM per linear foot for a given appliance duty (light, medium, heavy). Add make-up air to balance what's exhausted. Local mechanical code and NFPA 96 set the minimums for your specific line.

Related equipment

Source: IMC / NFPA 96 ventilation; CFM minimums vary by appliance duty and hood style. · Compiled by Resultex Media Group · Last verified August 2026